Awww….Monday

 

Hi everyone!  We are joining Comedy Plus’ Awww….Mondays 

Dusty is posing with one of the books I am currently reading. Always a Sibling: The Forgotten Mourner’s Guide to Grief by Annie Sklaver Orenstein is for anyone that has lost a sibling.  The author decided to write this book when she lost her brother and couldn’t find a book to help her with her grief. As you know, I lost my only sibling, my sister, almost two years ago to metastatic breast cancer. This book includes stories from many who have lost a sibling, some as children and many as adults. Regardless of when it happened, we lose a part of ourselves because our sibling(s) are the ones we shared our childhood with. I highly recommend this for anyone who has lost a sibling, be it recently or 30 years ago. You will find something in it for you.

Sometimes I feel guilty that I get to enjoy my sister’s grandchildren. I think she knew she wouldn’t be around long because she made a point to bring The Great One over from when she was about a year old. She clearly wanted me to have a relationship with her and I am thankful she did. I make sure that I always mention Grammie Ness ( her name was Vanessa) so the girls won’t forget about her. Sadly, The Boy was born a little over a month after she passed.

Penny will be here tomorrow with some money saving tips for you.

 

 

48 comments

  1. Dearest Ellen,
    Dusty is ‘paws on’ about the book and as you describe from a personal loss, it no doubt is valuable to many.
    You are doing great in keeping Vanessa’s memory alive with her grandchildren!
    Hugs,
    Mariette + Kitties

  2. Merci for that suggestion of the book. Your sister must have been amazing, like you, and how kind of hr to share the grandkids with you and know that you would be a great teacher and mentor to those little girls and teach them strong values. Would that more children had that gift from a parent or mother or friend or teacher. Merci.

  3. Awww, I’m so sorry about the loss of your sister, Ellen. I’ve always thought your fun times with her grandkids were just marvelous! Dusty looks so cute with the book! XO

  4. You are very loving, caring and your loss is such an awful load to bear.
    Now as a great Aunt you are also like a granny for those children, and a wonderful connection to the granny whose is no longer there but will be forever remembered because of your kindness.

  5. I think it’s nice that you get to enjoy your sister’s grandchildren. I feel she would have wanted it that way. Happy Monday!

  6. My brother (much older) is 94 and I dread the day I lose him. He’s healthy and active but that can go away in a second. Despite a huge age difference, we’ve always been close. You lost your sister way to early!

  7. Ellen I 100% agree with you Vanessa was such a wise and loving sister and Grandma…she saw what a wonderful aunt you were with her child…she knew you would be a fabulous Great Aunt
    Hugs cecilia

  8. I always love Mondays and what mom is reading. You’re so cute, Dusty.

    Thank you for joining the Awww Mondays Blog Hop.

    Have a fabulous Awww Monday and week, Ellen. Scritches to all the kitties and a hug to you. ♥

  9. Dusty ~ you such deep books ~ wow! ~ hugs ~ and sweet photo of you ~ hugs,

    Wishing you good health, laughter and love in your days,
    clm ~ A ShutterBug Explores,
    aka (A Creative Harbor)

  10. Ellen, you are such a positive and loving influence on your sister’s grandchildren. She knew that you would help shape their lives. I believe she watches and knows what a beautiful family they have all become with you all working together to keep her memory alive and celebrate life and family.
    Dusty is doing an excellent job helping you to introduce this book to help others who have lost dear ones and grieve.

  11. Mom says she feels your grief too. She lost her only sibling, a brother, when he was only 27, 50 years ago in a week. She has never really gotten beyond the sadness, but the good memories do help. Hugs to you from her.

    Woos – Misty and Timber

  12. Don’t you dare feel guilty, though I understand the sentiment. ~hugs~ I have no doubt your sister is smiling upon you, the best auntie ever! While kitties can’t talk, I have no doubt ours would agree; your toys are so awesome and your caring epic even in this great community. 😀 Best wishes and healing upon your heart.

  13. Dusty looks so cute. The close relationship you have with the children is wonderful.

  14. Dusty is so beautiful.

    I am very sad for your loss, you might know I lost a brother. If I get a chance, I will look up this book.

    Your nieces and nephew are blessed to have you.

    1. Thank you. Yes, I remember. I think you would find it helpful. I am blessed to have them. XO

  15. God bless you and the children, and you have helped them so much by telling them of Grammie Ness. She is, as you are, very important in their lives though she is gone now.

    I lost both of my brothers and of course, a child as you know. I will look up the book. Thank you dear friend.

  16. Lulu: “That sounds like an excellent book for someone who has experienced such a loss. It’s great that you are helping keep your sister’s memory going with the girls and the boy!”

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